Gov. Kathy Hochul is pushing to ban cell phones and other internet-enabled devices in K-12 schools, proposing changes to state education law. The plan has support from groups like Common Sense Media, citing concerns over academic distractions and student mental health.
Research shows social media impacts learning, with nearly 70% of teens reporting distractions. The ban would apply to all school areas and activities, with exceptions for students with disabilities, medical needs, or emergencies. Schools would need policies for parental communication and storage solutions.
If approved, districts must adopt policies by August and submit enforcement reports annually. Hochul pledged $13.1 million to help schools implement the policy but did not specify penalties for violations. The ban could take effect this fall.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].